Speak the truth, do not yield to anger; give, if thou art asked for little; by these three steps thou wilt go near the gods.
ConfuciusRead
Do not worry about not holding high position; worry rather about playing your proper role. Worry not that no one knows of you; seek to be worth knowing.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Focus on fulfilling your role well rather than seeking recognition or status.
This quote emphasizes the importance of understanding and playing one's role in life rather than being preoccupied with social status or recognition. Confucius encourages individuals to strive to be worthy and valuable, suggesting that true fulfillment comes from personal integrity and the quality of one's contributions, rather than external validation.
Themes
RoleWorthRecognitionWisdomService
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about personal fulfillment.
More from Confucius
All quotes βEarnest in practicing the ordinary virtues, and careful in speaking about them, if, in his practice, he has anything defective, the superior man dares not but exert himself; and if, in his words, he has any excess, he dares not allow himself such license.
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When you see a good person, think of becoming like her/him. When you see someone not so good, reflect on your own weak points.
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Never give a sword to a man who can't dance.
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The superior man is distressed by the limitations of his ability; he is not distressed by the fact that men do not recognize the ability that he has.
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Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.
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